
Family of Police Constable Jim Richardson Okundi disputes official account of his death during Linda Mwananchi rally
The family of Police Constable Jim Richardson Okundi is disputing the official police account of his death during the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay on August 16. Police initially stated that Okundi died after being struck in the face by a stone thrown by youths. However, relatives who viewed his body claim it bore no facial injuries consistent with this explanation. His uncle, Samson Ombori, noted the body appeared "very fit," contradicting the police's version of events. Adding to their suspicions, Okundi was found stripped of his uniform, firearm, wallet, and identification documents, with police reportedly offering no explanation for these missing items. His brother, Simon Okundi, also reported receiving conflicting accounts from different officers regarding the circumstances and location of his death. Okundi's widow, Sheila Zablon, has appealed to the government for an investigation, and the family has formally requested the Inspector General of Police to open an independent inquiry. Relatives state that attempts to get answers from the police command have been met with hostility, and they will not proceed with his burial until a thorough investigation is concluded. The Linda Mwananchi rally itself was marked by violence, resulting in at least 34 injuries and several torched vehicles.



